What began as a grassroots revitalization project in 2018 has blossomed into a cultural movement, transforming this tranquil seaside community into a dynamic hub for both local and international artists. If you're passionate about folklore, street art, or Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, Hellissandur offers a unique experience where creativity meets nature.
Visitors can explore the murals as part of a Snaefellsnes Peninsula tour or embark on a scenic journey with a self-driving tour in Iceland. For those seeking flexibility, renting a car in Iceland allows you to discover Hellissandur and its surroundings at your own pace. To learn more about the village and what makes it so special, visit this Hellissandur travel guide.
Check out the available Hellissandur hotels and accommodation to plan your stay. With its visuals and cultural depth, the Murals of Hellissandur are a must-see along Iceland’s west coast. Use this travel guide to uncover the stories behind the art, find the best places to stay and eat, and plan your visit to one of the country’s most imaginative destinations.
Most Notable Murals in Hellissandur and Their Stories
The murals of Hellissandur are more than just painted walls. They’re layered narratives of Icelandic identity, myth, and imagination. Each piece reflects its creator's unique style and voice while contributing to the village’s evolving artistic identity. The mural scene began in 2018 as a grassroots art project led by Kari Vidarsson, founder of The Freezer Hostel.
Kari Vidarsson's goal was to turn this quiet fishing village into a cultural landmark. Today, Hellissandur is home to over 40 large-scale murals painted on buildings, fences, and public spaces. The murals explore themes like folklore, nature, mysticism, and Iceland’s role in global media, creating a powerful visual experience unlike anywhere else in the country.
“Still Waiting” by Ljubomir Todorovic
One of Hellissandur’s iconic pieces, “Still Waiting,” shows a grayscale image of a young girl staring out to sea. The mural is inspired by a 1990s alien conspiracy theory that suggested mysterious signals were being transmitted from a Cold War–era radar station in the area.
The piece conveys a deep sense of isolation, curiosity, and connection to the unknown. The girl’s quiet posture and distant gaze tap into Iceland’s remote identity, while the mural itself invites interpretations about silence, surveillance, and the blurred line between myth and memory.
“Bardur Snaefellsas” by Camilo Arias
This vivid mural portrays Bardur Snaefellsas, the legendary half-troll, half-man guardian of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Rooted in Icelandic saga literature, Bardur is believed to dwell in the glacier-capped volcano of Snaefellsjokull, watching over the region.
Artist Camilo Arias blends folklore with a bold, contemporary style—using sharp lines, shadowed contours, and a palette that feels both ancient and futuristic. The mural honors the enduring power of myth and anchors local tradition in a globally accessible visual form.
“Melisandre” by Natalia Moguel
This striking mural portrays Melisandre, the mysterious Red Priestess from Game of Thrones, brought to life in vivid tones of crimson, deep black, and fiery orange. Iceland served as a key filming location for the series, and this mural reflects both its cinematic legacy and its mystical landscapes.
Melisandre’s fiery aura and intense gaze align perfectly with Hellissandur’s otherworldly vibe. The mural acts as a cultural bridge, tying global fantasy storytelling to Iceland’s real-life terrain and ethereal atmosphere.
Nature and Folklore-Inspired Murals
Many of Hellissandur’s murals celebrate Iceland’s powerful landscapes and mythical traditions. These large-scale works often feature:
- Puffins and Arctic terns are shown in mid-flight, soaring gracefully across swirling, stylized skies.
- Whales are illustrated breaching through constellations, blending elements of biology and fantasy into a celestial scene.
- Glaciers and lava fields are reimagined in surreal, dreamlike forms that blur the line between nature and imagination.
- Trolls, spirits, and shapeshifters from Icelandic folklore are transformed into bold expressions of contemporary street art.
These murals honor the deep connection between Icelanders and their environment. Through bold colors, fantastical imagery, and layered symbolism, they reflect local pride while inviting global visitors into the world of Icelandic imagination.
Best Time To Visit the Murals of Hellissandur
The best time to visit the murals of Hellissandur is from late May through early September, when the West Iceland region experiences its mildest and most traveler-friendly weather. During summer, daylight hours are long, often stretching up to 20 hours a day, giving visitors plenty of time to explore the village and appreciate the murals under ideal lighting conditions.
Summer is also when Hellissandur feels most alive. Cultural events, art workshops, and occasional performances are held at The Freezer Hostel, the creative hub that kickstarted the street art movement in the village. Artists often visit or stay in residence, making summer an exciting opportunity to experience Hellissandur.
Although the murals are outdoors and visible year-round, winter presents several challenges. The village can be affected by snowstorms, icy roads, and limited daylight, sometimes less than five hours daily. These conditions make walking the mural route less comfortable and impact visibility, safety, and enjoyment.
Many travel services and nearby attractions operate on a reduced schedule or close entirely during the off-season. For a safe and immersive experience, visit Hellissandur during the official summer travel season. You’ll enjoy dry walking paths, vivid colors in natural light, and the chance to engage with the local creative culture while surrounded by coastal scenery.
How To Get to the Murals of Hellissandur
Hellissandur is located on the north coast of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, about 200 kilometers (125 miles) from Reykjavik. It is found in a remote part of West Iceland but can be easily reached by car. Self-driving tours allow you to explore at your own pace and include stops like Hellissandur. Guided tours often follow fixed schedules and rarely include the village.
Self-Drive Tours
The following self-driving packages all include time in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and allow you to plan a visit to the murals in Hellissandur. After arriving in the village, you’ll find that all the murals are easily accessible on foot, making it easy to explore them at a relaxed pace.
- 10-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road & Snaefellsnes Peninsula: This full-circle road trip includes a dedicated segment in the Snaefellsnes region. The closest point to Hellissandur on this route is Olafsvik, just 5 minutes away by car. You can easily detour to Hellissandur via Route 574 and spend a few hours exploring the murals on foot.
- 7-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road & Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Designed for those who want to experience Iceland in one week, this tour also includes time on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Hellissandur is within easy reach, and travelers can plan to arrive from nearby coastal villages like Grundarfjordur or Olafsvik—both less than 30 minutes away.
- 5-Day Self-Drive Tour of West Iceland & the Snaefellsnes Peninsula: This West Iceland-focused itinerary is perfect for visiting Hellissandur. The tour includes attractions like Snaefellsjokull National Park, which is less than 10 minutes from the village. It’s an ideal choice for art lovers and slow travelers looking to explore the murals in depth.
For complete flexibility, you can also opt for car rental services in Iceland and create your own route. Hellissandur is located about 200 kilometers (125 miles) from Reykjavik, with paved roads connecting them. Once in Hellissandur, you can park in the village and explore the murals on foot without a guide or special transport.
Where To Stay When Visiting the Murals of Hellissandur
Hellissandur offers a range of accommodations for different travel styles, all within easy reach of the village’s famous murals. If you're looking for a creative atmosphere, scenic guesthouse, or hotel-style comfort, these options provide a great base for exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
- The Freezer Apartments: Just steps from the murals, with sea and mountain views, these are perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.
- Adventure Hotel Hellissandur: A comfortable hotel in the village center and a convenient choice for mural enthusiasts and those visiting nearby attractions.
- West Park Guesthouse: A quiet, cozy guesthouse within walking distance of the murals. It offers scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere, ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful stay in the village.
- North Star Guesthouse Snaefellsnes: Located in nearby Olafsvik, just five minutes from Hellissandur. Offers simple, budget-friendly rooms with shared facilities in a central location.
- Welcome Apartments Olafsvik: Fully equipped apartments are available in the town of Olafsvik. Ideal for families or couples wanting extra space and comfort, just a short drive from the murals.
These accommodations provide excellent access to Hellissandur’s street art and the natural wonders of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
Where To Eat When Visiting Hellissandur
Hellissandur is a peaceful and compact village that provides visitors with several charming places to experience authentic Icelandic cuisine and warm local hospitality. Whether you’re after a warm fish soup, fresh seafood, or a sweet pastry, these dining options near Hellissandur are worth adding to your itinerary.
- Gilbakki Kaffihus: Set in the heart of Hellissandur, this inviting cafe occupies an old house that adds to its warm and welcoming atmosphere. Gilbakki stands out for its warm, welcoming feel and comforting menu. They offer flavorful fish soup, oven-fresh bread, and a variety of homemade cakes, which are favorites. It's open seasonally, from spring through early fall.
- Vidvik Restaurant: Just down the road in the village of Rif, Vidvik is a family-run restaurant known for its seafood dishes and warm service. Menu options may include pan-fried cod, langoustine soup, and Icelandic lamb, often served with views of the sea or a nearby glacier. It’s a great place to unwind with a locally inspired meal in a peaceful coastal setting.
No matter where you choose to dine, the surrounding villages of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula offer a taste of Icelandic life along with fresh and flavorful meals. For more ideas on where to eat around the country, check out this guide to the best restaurants in Iceland.
Practical Information
Before you visit Hellissandur to see its iconic murals, it's helpful to know what to expect so you can plan your trip smoothly. While the village is small and quiet, it’s easy to navigate and rewarding for anyone interested in art, culture, and Icelandic landscapes.
- Entry Fee: There is no admission cost to view the murals. The entire display is outdoors and accessible at all hours, making it one of Iceland’s few cultural attractions that’s free and open 24/7.
- Duration: Plan to spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the village. The murals are scattered throughout Hellissandur and can be seen on foot. If you're into photography or want to read mural descriptions or visit nearby cafes, you may want to stay longer.
- Accessibility: Hellissandur is easy to navigate on foot, with flat ground and straightforward paths allowing a relaxed walking experience through the village. The roads and trails through the town are paved or gravel, with only mild elevation changes. Most murals are viewable from roadside walkways, but a few may require walking short distances across uneven ground.
- Facilities: On-site facilities in Hellissandur are limited. The village has a seasonal cafe and a few guesthouses, but no gas station, pharmacy, or grocery store. Most essential services are found near Olafsvik, about 5 minutes away by car. Refueling your vehicle and picking up any necessary supplies in a nearby town is a good idea before reaching Hellissandur.
- Parking: Visitors will find free public parking spaces near the village. Visitors can easily leave their car near the center of town or close to The Freezer Hostel and walk the full mural route from there.
With some planning, your visit to the Murals of Hellissandur can be a smooth and inspiring experience in one of the most creative corners of West Iceland.
Tips for Visiting theMurals of Hellissandur
Exploring the murals of Hellissandur is a unique and rewarding experience, especially if you come prepared. While the village is small and easy to navigate, there are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit.
- Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes: The murals are spread throughout the village, and while the ground is mostly flat, some areas include gravel or uneven paths. Good footwear will make your walk more enjoyable, especially if you plan to photograph the artwork or wander into quiet side streets.
- Time your visit around golden hour: The soft, low-angle light of early morning or late evening adds a warm glow to the murals and surrounding scenery. If you're into photography, golden hour is the best time to capture vibrant colors and dramatic contrast between the art and the coastal landscape.
- Respect the murals: Although the murals are located outdoors and open to all, they are cultural treasures that deserve care. Please avoid touching or leaning on them. Time and weather have already worn down the paint, and gentle viewing helps preserve the murals for future visitors.
- Check for events at the Freezer Hostel: The Freezer is more than just a place to stay—it is Hellissandur’s cultural center. It may host live music, film nights, or art workshops depending on the season. Check their schedule or social media in advance to see what’s happening during your visit.
- Explore nearby natural sights: Hellissandur is located near several stunning attractions, including black sand beaches, lava fields, and glacier viewpoints. You can combine your visit with stops at places like Skardsvik Beach, Djupalonssandur, or the Londrangar cliffs for a perfect balance of art and nature.
- Bring supplies if needed: Services in Hellissandur are limited. Bringing snacks, water, and other essentials is a good idea, especially if you visit outside the main summer season. For gas, groceries, or pharmacy needs, head to the nearby town of Olafsvik, just a short drive away.
Following these tips will help you make the most of your visit to Hellissandur’s open-air gallery. From catching the murals in the best light to knowing what to bring, these simple preparations ensure you’ll enjoy a smooth, immersive, and memorable walk through one of Iceland’s most creative villages.
Nearby Attractions Around the Murals of Hellissandur
Hellissandur is surrounded by some of West Iceland’s most spectacular natural landmarks, making it an ideal stop on any Snaefellsnes Peninsula itinerary. After exploring the murals, travelers can enjoy nearby beaches, cliffs, and coastal towns that are just a short drive away.
A highlight of the region is Snaefellsjokull National Park, where a glacier-topped volcano dominates the landscape and famously served as the fictional entry point in Jules Verne’s classic novel Journey to the Center of the Earth. The park offers hiking trails, lava fields, and stunning photo opportunities, and it's less than 15 minutes by car from Hellissandur.
Just west of the village lies Skardsvik Beach, one of Iceland’s rare golden-sand beaches. Surrounded by black volcanic rock, the contrast of yellow sand against rugged lava fields creates a unique and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a scenic stop.
As you travel farther along the coastline, the Londrangar Cliffs come into view, towering basalt formations that stand boldly above the ocean, shaped by centuries of volcanic activity and sea erosion. These striking basalt formations are the remains of an ancient volcanic crater and are steeped in local folklore. The cliffs are also a favorite for birdwatching and coastal photography.
To the east, the towns of Olafsvik and Rif are just minutes from Hellissandur. Olafsvik offers harbor views, local restaurants, and additional accommodation options, while Rif is a quiet fishing village with its own charm and access to walking paths along the coast.
A short drive south brings you to Djupalonssandur Beach, a black lava beach known for its dramatic shoreline and historic shipwreck remnants. Visitors can try lifting the traditional strength-testing stones once used by fishermen and enjoy the wild scenery shaped by the Atlantic Ocean.
Each of these attractions complements a visit to Hellissandur, offering travelers a chance to experience both the cultural creativity of the murals and the raw beauty of Iceland’s west coast.
FAQs About the Murals of Hellissandur
Who made the Murals of Hellissandur?
The murals in Hellissandur were painted by a diverse group of artists, combining local Icelandic talent with contributors from around the world. The project was launched in 2018 by Kari Vidarsson, founder of The Freezer Hostel, to transform the village into an outdoor art gallery.
What is the mural capital of Iceland?
Hellissandur is considered the mural capital of Iceland, with over 40 large-scale artworks across buildings in the village. Its compact layout makes it easy to explore the murals on foot.
What to see in Hellissandur, Iceland?
Travelers can explore the vibrant murals, visit The Freezer Hostel’s cultural space, and enjoy nearby attractions like Snaefellsjokull National Park, Skardsvik Beach, and the towns of Olafsvik and Rif.
What themes and ideas gave rise to the Murals of Hellissandur?
The murals reflect themes of folklore, mysticism, environmental change, and Icelandic identity. Some are inspired by local legends, while others feature marine life, fantasy, or pop culture.
What is the population of Hellissandur?
Hellissandur has a population of around 400 residents. Its quiet, authentic atmosphere and creative spirit make it a unique stop on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
Murals of Hellissandur: A Must-See Stop on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Hellissandur is more than a quiet coastal village. It’s a living canvas that showcases the power of creativity in the heart of West Iceland. Its open-air murals tell stories of folklore, nature, and imagination, transforming everyday walls into bold works of art. This colorful destination invites you to experience Iceland from a fresh perspective.
With dramatic landscapes, nearby beaches, and a growing cultural scene, Hellissandur is a must-visit on any Snaefellsnes Peninsula road trip. The murals offer more than just photo opportunities; they offer meaning, memory, and a deeper connection to Iceland’s evolving identity. Don’t just pass through, pause, explore, and let the art speak for itself.
